29 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards, but for the 2017 Acura RLX Hybrid, it’s a carefully considered balance. Acura designed the RLX Hybrid for the executive who wants a smooth, quiet, and technologically advanced driving experience, a buyer willing to trade ultimate fuel efficiency for V6 power and luxurious features.

City and highway performance

The RLX Hybrid has an interesting EPA fuel economy rating: 29 MPG city and 30 MPG highway. This near-identical rating shows how the hybrid system is tuned. In urban environments, the electric motors handle much of the low-speed movement, and regenerative braking captures energy lost during stop-and-go driving. The 3.5L V6 engine helps during acceleration and higher-speed cruising, while the electric motors also kick in to boost the engine’s output. The result is consistent power delivery and relatively consistent fuel consumption in both city and highway driving. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission ensures quick and smooth shifts, enhancing the driving experience.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 Acura RLX Hybrid is $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. This is a useful way to compare the RLX Hybrid against other vehicles, but remember that your actual fuel costs will depend on your individual driving habits and local fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a good starting point, real-world fuel economy will vary. Expect to see numbers slightly lower than the EPA estimates if you often accelerate hard or drive aggressively. You might see slightly higher numbers if you drive gently and maximize the regenerative braking system. Factors like tire pressure, ambient temperature, and cargo weight can also change fuel consumption.

How it compares

The RLX Hybrid competes against other luxury sedans that offer both performance and efficiency. The Lexus ES 300h, for example, gets a higher combined EPA rating of 44 MPG and appeals to buyers who prioritize saving gas. The BMW 530e plug-in hybrid offers a smaller all-electric range but gets 28 MPG combined when running as a hybrid. The Mercedes-Benz E350e, another plug-in hybrid, delivers 25 MPG combined, focusing on electric driving over pure hybrid efficiency. The RLX Hybrid distinguishes itself with its V6 power, comfortable ride, and respectable MPG for its size, attracting drivers who want a balance of luxury, performance, and efficiency without plugging in.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the RLX Hybrid’s regenerative braking system. Think about traffic flow and ease off the accelerator early to allow the car to slow down naturally, getting the most energy back.

Keep proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, dropping fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level.

Avoid aggressive driving. Fast acceleration and hard braking significantly decrease fuel efficiency. Drive smoothly and consistently to maximize MPG.

Use cruise control on the highway. Keeping a steady speed can improve fuel economy, especially on long trips.

Minimize accessories. Air conditioning and heated seats use extra power and can lower fuel efficiency. Use them carefully to conserve fuel. You can find all Acura fuel economy data from FuelEconomyHub.com, as well as information about RLX MPG across all years.